What to see in the Puy-de-Dôme in 3 days

Our day-by-day itinerary

The map shows the numbered stops in visiting order, with one colour per day. The line follows the roads where available; otherwise it joins the stops as the crow flies. Distances and times are approximate (by car, without traffic).

Day 1 — Clermont-Ferrand to Cascade du Creux Saillant

This day brings together 3 sites close to each other: towns and cities, villages and waterfalls. It passes through Clermont-Ferrand. Allow half an hour to an hour and a half per site, plus travel time.

Day 2 — Cascade de Queureuilh to Le Puy de Dôme

This day brings together 4 sites close to each other: natural wonders and waterfalls. Allow half an hour to an hour and a half per site, plus travel time.

Day 3 — Cascade de la Barthe to Pyramides - Vallée des Saints

This day brings together 5 sites close to each other: waterfalls, lakes and natural wonders. Allow half an hour to an hour and a half per site, plus travel time.

When to go

Spring, summer and autumn all suit exploring the volcanoes, lakes and waterfalls. Summer is the best time for mountain sites, but a storm can spoil a hike. In winter, snow is frequent at altitude and some access roads are closed.

Getting around

A car is the most practical way to reach the sites, which are often far from each other. Mountain roads are slower than those on the plain. Some visits, such as the Puy de Dôme, have specific access methods: find out before you go.

Our tips

• Pack warm clothes, even in summer, as the temperature drops quickly at altitude.
• For waterfalls, choose spring or the period after heavy rain, when the flow is greater.
• Start early to enjoy the light and avoid afternoon storms.
• Stay on the paths: the volcanic environment is fragile.

If you have more time

More itineraries